Similarly, the campaign is also drawing solidarity from the death of an Iraqi-American mother of five, last week. The death of Martin, an unarmed black teenager fatally shot in Florida for looking suspicious, is raising comparisons to California’s Shaima Alawadi, who died following a brutal beating. Alawadi was attacked while wearing a hijab. Next to her body, somebody left the note, “Go back to your country, you terrorist.” Classy.

Last year, TVOntario received 52 of its $90-million operating budget from the McGuinty government, but this year, the organization is being encouraged to seek alternative funds to stay afloat. In addition, Luminato, a 10-day festival started in 2007, was promised $15-million over four years by the McGuinty Liberals in 2010, but cuts will reduce these payments by $1.5 million starting in 2012, and $2-million the following year. The festival’s annual budget is usually in the $13-million range, so these cuts are sizeable.

Eight cultural attractions, the AGO, ROM, the Ontario Science Centre, the McMichael Canadian Art Collection, the Royal Botanical Gardens, Ontario Heritage Trust, Science North and the St. Lawrence Park Commission can expect an almost $5-million cut over the next three years.

But how will these cuts influence the success of these thriving arts communities? So far, the government’s actions are prompting these agencies to become more resourceful in their fundraising and brand marketing strategies, but at least there is a little bit of time to brainstorm. The total reduction shared by these eight agencies in 2012 will be an estimated $900,000.

Is Popcorn the “Perfect” Snack Food?

Crunch and Munch for lunch? It’s not bad for you, and in fact, it may be healthier than some fruits and vegetables. Researchers at the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania have found popcorn to be the “perfect snack food.”

You don’t say?

The study found popcorn to contain up to 300 milligrams of polyphenols, an antioxidant known to reduce cholesterol and also prevent cancer. The report says popcorn contains more antioxidants and healthy by-products than other fruits and vegetables. Hmm. Of course, this is air-popped popcorn, not the always-fun movie theatre kind which is covered in butter, oil and salt.

Still, a snacking win is a snacking win. Most popcorn contains less calories, fats, and saturated fats than other snacks. Oh, to be able to participate in that study… Maybe I’ll pop open a bag and e-mail them my own personal findings.

____

Joanna Adams writes the Morning Cable, and lots more, for Toronto Standard. Follow her on Twitter at â€ @nowstarringTO.